Summary
A 59-year-old government contractor employee was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons cited four delinquent debts totaling $44,971, specifically a $4,200 tax debt, a $35,667 credit card/collection debt, a $4,957 department store/collection debt, and a $147 electronics store debt. These issues raised disqualifying conditions related to financial irresponsibility and an unwillingness to meet financial obligations.
However, the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns. He fully paid one delinquent debt and established a payment plan for another. He also provided a credible commitment to resolve the remaining debts, supported by a history of previous debt resolution.
The decision to grant the clearance was based on the applicant's demonstrated financial responsibility and his current income, which allows him to manage and resolve his outstanding obligations. The judge concluded that the applicant's actions and assurances met the mitigating conditions, ensuring future compliance and eligibility for access to classified information.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant paid one delinquent debt in full and is on a payment plan for another.
- He credibly promised to resolve the remaining debts and has a track record of debt resolution.
- His current income allows him to manage and resolve his debts.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedConditions That Resulted in the Financial Problem Were Largely Beyond the Person’s ControlThe applicant's financial issues stemmed from unemployment and underemployment.
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedThe Person Has Received or Is Receiving Counseling for the ProblemThe applicant received financial counseling and is actively working to resolve his debts.
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve DebtsThe applicant has made substantial payments towards his debts and has a plan to settle the remaining debts.
Key Rule Quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon the Applicant meeting the criteria contained in the revised adjudicative guidelines (AG).”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 9, 2009
- Answer filedApr 27, 2009
- Hearing heldAug 11, 2009
- Decision dateOct 5, 2009
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Issues Under Guideline F
- Importance of Credible Repayment Plans
- Consideration of Whole Person Concept in Security Clearance Decisions